Small Island, Great Riches, a biography of Maltese tenor Paul Asciak, was launched yesterday at the Casino Maltese in Valletta.

Penned by Sue Brown, the book, published by Allied Publications, tells the moving story of the life of an opera singer who achieved his ambition despite many odds and developing a successful career in Italy and the UK.

Yet, when he was only 38, he gave it all up to return to his family in Malta and begin a new life.

Over 30 years later, he discovered the outstanding vocal talent of Joseph Calleja and became his only teacher, training him in the tradition of fine singing in which he himself had been nurtured.

Paul Asciak’s story is told against the background of the many changes in Maltese life over the last 80 years. As such, it throws light on Maltese identity and culture and the history of opera in Malta.

It also describes in detail the way in which Calleja’s unique voice and style were fostered by Asciak.

The launch ceremony was addressed by Richard England and Abraham Borg, close friends of Paul Asciak, former The Sunday Times editor Laurence Grech and the author, Sue Brown.

Mr Grech described Mr Asciak's life as a life lived to the full.

"A life Paul dedicated to his family, to music and culture, to his beloved country and its capital city; it is a life full of joie de vivre, even if marked by sad events such as the loss of loved ones, disappointments and missed opportunities; it is a life of talent which gave such pleasure – and continues to do so through his recordings -- to so many in Malta, Italy, Britain and other countries," Mr Grech said.

During the ceremony, guests were able to listen to recordings of Mr Asciak's performances as well as a video message from Joseph Calleja.